I am trying to think of a signal that I want to use to get the kids' attention. So far I have come up with
* 1,2,3 eyes on me....1,2 eyes on you
* Clapping pattern
* If you are listening touch your head, etc.
What has worked best for you? Do you use several signals or just one?
Thanks!

I have always simply used a bell...I have 2...one at the reading table and one at the overhead....when I ring it they are to stop and give me their attention...most days it works very well...sometimes it's just for a momentary reminder, changing activities, etc.

I do a shushing pattern they have to repeat to me. (Instead of clapping a pattern, I make a "sh" noise.)
I also say show me 10 (10 fingers) this gets all of their hands off the materials. I got some wind chimes this year and that is nice, too.

i use "give me 5" . Both first grades use it so we can work in either room and get their attention. I also use Eyes on Me.. I do a lot of sign language to get the in the habit of looking at me for directions and instructions so they have to be watching me do the signs for the next activity or book to get out or which group lines up first.

I read this somewhere on these boards and it is cute! When I want my kids to put everything down and look at me, I chant "Hands on top" while putting my hands on my head. They respond "Everybody STOP" while putting their hands on their heads. It works well, because they can't put their hands on their heads and hold crayons, pencils, etc.. at the same time.

I also like "Hocus, Pocus, Everybody Focus" I read that somewhere on these boards, too, but I haven't used it yet. Maybe this week I'll try it!